Here’s a surprise that’s making Texans proud—the city of College Station has been listed among the top places in the U.S. to retire, and it’s not even a city that’s usually featured on these kinds of lists.
Most people in Texas think about retiring to the suburbs of Austin, Dallas, or other bigger metro areas. But now, thanks to Forbes, College Station is getting national attention as a great spot for retirees.
Why College Station Is a Top Retirement Pick
This year, Forbes reviewed more than 950 cities and towns across the U.S. to find the best retirement spots. Their rankings were based on important factors like:
- Housing affordability
- Taxes (including income and estate taxes)
- Access to healthcare and doctors
- Air quality and pollution levels
- Crime rates
- Risk from natural disasters and climate change
And College Station, Texas—a place mostly known as the home of Texas A&M University—made it into the Top 25.
Located about 85 miles northwest of Houston, with a population of around 128,000, College Station is attracting attention for more than just its college town vibe.
What Makes College Station Ideal for Retirees?
According to the Forbes report, here are the main pros of retiring in College Station:
- Median home price is $347,000, which is 14% lower than the national average
- Plenty of doctors and strong access to healthcare
- Good air quality
- The city is very bikeable
- Extremely low crime rates
- No state income tax and no estate tax
- A stable and growing local economy
These features make it easy to see why retirees would find College Station peaceful, affordable, and convenient.
Any Downsides?
Yes, but nothing that’s unexpected for a Texas town. Here are the main cons listed:
- The city is not very walkable
- It has hot, humid summers
But let’s be honest—most Texas cities deal with hot and sticky weather. What sets College Station apart is its lower crime rate, affordable homes, and quality of life, especially for seniors.
More Than Just a College Town
College Station may be famous for its student life and late nights in Bottle Cap Alley, but it’s quickly becoming a place where people can also enjoy their retirement years. It’s got the peaceful vibe of a small town, with the energy and resources of a university city—making it a perfect blend for retirees who want both comfort and convenience.